It’s hard to say exactly how much preference is given to students having previous work experience since no one activity is going to give a student an edge at getting into a college or university of his or her choice. However, it’s pretty certain thing that having previous work experience is not a bad. Students with previous work experience show colleges that they are mature enough to take on the responsibility of having a job, and that they are able to balance school with their activities. Having or having had a job indicates certain character traits in a student and the experience of having worked gives students a different perspective. Yet, such traits can also be demonstrated through other extracurricular activities and letters of recommendation. So, it’s not necessary to have previous work experience, but it’s still a positive thing.
It’s probably better that a student pursues what he or she enjoys, rather than strictly just searching for a job because it will look good on the college application. This way, the student will not only be able to demonstrate his or her work ethic, but also put the work experience into context. Also, if a student is working to help support his or her family, it is a good idea to explain that in the application.